Since the beginning of 2024, several hundred poisoning linked to the CBD have been identified-e-liquids, candies, oils … and sometimes prohibited compounds. Focus on the figures, the drifts observed, and the gestures to adopt to protect yourself.
A boom from CBD products to products
According to the joint press release from ANSM and ANSES of June 19, 2025: “Since 2024, the number of poisoning related to the consumption of cannabidiol products (CBD) has increased significantly “. Several hundred cases have been identified by the anti-poison and toxicovigilance centers (CAP-TV) or to the evaluation and information centers on pharmacodependence-addictovigilance (CEIP-A).
The products concerned are varied: e – liquids, resins, oils, capsules, candies, chocolates, sometimes sold on the Internet, in specialized stores or even in automatic distributors.
In most cases, these effects are linked to the presence of THC (Active CANNABIS principle) or Synthetic cannabinoids such as HHC, HHC-O, H4-CBD, MDMB-PINACA… Very powerful substances that imitate the action of THC. Adverse effects can occur Whatever the form of consumption : ingestion, vaping, or smoke.
It is also important to remember that to date, Foods containing CBD (oils, capsules, candies, chocolates, gumies, syrups, cakes, etc.) are not allowed for sale in the European Union. All these products can represent a danger to health.
Products containing synthetic cannabinoids or CBDs with a THC level greater than 0.3 % are classified as narcotics. Their Sale, purchase and consumption are prohibitedwhatever their form: to smoke, vapor or swallow.
Very often misleading labeling
An analysis of 2023 conducted by the Mildeca and the CEIP of Lyon, Paris and Montpellier reveals an alarming observation: “8 out of 10 CBD products have a CBD content different from that indicated on labeling “.
Health agencies underline: “Very often, the composition announced – especially on labels – does not correspond to the actual composition of the purchased product “. Certain preparations, including food, are actually prohibited for sale in the European Union, despite their presence on the market.
In addition, the authorities recall that CBD is not a trivial product. Even in low doses, it can cause side effects: drowsiness, lethargy, digestive disorders, drug interactions.
The symptoms reported in poisoning include fatigue, nausea, dizziness, tachycardia, vomiting, states of agitation, hallucinations, epilepsy, even suicidal ideas. “”In vulnerable people (psychiatric history, pregnant women, adolescents), the risks include lasting anxiety disorders or the worsening of mental disorders. Variable legality depending on the country also adds a legal risk. In case of consumption, it is therefore crucial to know the real dose of CBD, its own tolerance threshold and to be in a secure environment “, Dr. Kierzek told us as part of a previous article.
How to react in case of poisoning?
Faced with these reports, health agencies recall the gestures to adopt:
- Stop consumption of the suspect product;
- Call 15 in case of serious symptoms or loss of knowledge;
- Contact a anti -poison center (01 45 42 59 59)accessible 24/7;
- See a doctor in case of persistent doubt or symptoms;
- Keep the packaging and the product for analysis via the Sintes de l’EDDT system;
- Declare the adverse effect on the official portal.
Special attention must be paid to children : attractive products such as candies or syrups are particularly at risk in the event of accidental ingestion. Their storage must imperatively be out of reach.
The rapid boom in CBD products is accompanied by worrying drifts: false labeling, prohibited substances, sometimes serious side effects. Faced with that, ANSES and ANSM call for greater vigilance of consumersenhanced regulations, and increased transparency on the actual composition of products. A clear alert for users, but also a strong signal sent to unscrupulous sellers.